Kerry testifies before panel he chairs

WASHINGTON (AP) ? President Barack Obama's nominee for secretary of state says it's imperative for the United States get its fiscal house in order to lead worldwide.

In prepared testimony, Sen. John Kerry tells the Foreign Relations Committee that, quote, "foreign policy is economic policy." He spoke Thursday at his confirmation hearing.

Kerry described himself as humble, testifying before the panel he has served on for 28 years ? and led as chairman for the last four.

He discussed the life-threatening issue of climate change. He also says it is critical the U.S. prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon.

Obama chose Kerry to succeed Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/apdefault/89ae8247abe8493fae24405546e9a1aa/Article_2013-01-24-Kerry%20Nomination/id-e97bc2406f3c4467b4e2a005ea2be0e9

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